The tummy tuck remains among the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed each year. That’s because it’s the single most effective way to achieve a slimmer, flatter, more defined stomach.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
The tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from your stomach. It also helps you regain support in the abdominal muscles along the abdominal wall that can become weak from age or separation.
For many people, no matter how much exercise or dieting they do, they can’t achieve a flat and toned midsection. Even if you’re thin, you can have a “pooch” in the front that sticks out, is loose, or sags. This is normal, and there are common causes of this type of protrusion including:
- Age
- Genetics
- Childbirth
- Previous surgery
- Weight loss and gain
Tummy tuck surgery is the best way to get rid of a protruding stomach if you’re bothered by it. It’s also a common part of mommy makeover surgeries and can easily be combined with procedures like liposuction or breast augmentation.
Tummy Tuck
Before & Afters
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Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me?
A tummy tuck should not be considered a weight loss procedure. It’s a good option if you’re bothered by the appearance of your stomach because of loose skin, stretched, weakened, or separated abdominal muscles, and stubborn excess fat. To be considered a good candidate for a tummy tuck, you should:
- Be at a healthy and stable weight
- Have no medical issues that would interfere with healing
- Have no plans to become pregnant
- Have a positive outlook and realistic expectations
It’s common to get a tummy tuck after you’ve lost a significant amount of weight. If this is the case, it’s best to give yourself plenty of time to adjust to your new body and maintain your weight for at least six months. If you’re undergoing a mommy makeover procedure, you should be fully recovered from childbirth and not have a plan for future pregnancies before scheduling your procedure.
Your Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck can be performed using general anesthesia or sedation, depending on what you decide with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Trupiano during your consultation. Once you’re ready, Dr. Trupiano will make an incision that runs from your hip, down to the pubic hairline, and up to your opposite hip. The exact shape of the incision depends on how much excess skin is in this area. The flap of skin is pulled back and underlying muscles are repaired. For some, another incision around the belly button is made to remove the skin from the upper belly area.
Next, the upper abdominal skin is pulled down and any excess skin at the bottom is trimmed away. Then, the bottom of the flap is sutured together with the adjoining skin. An opening for the belly button is made, and the navel is then popped through and sutured to hold it in place. Finally, your incisions will be closed, and you’ll be made ready to go home to begin the healing process.
Tummy Tuck Results and Recovery
You should expect to take 1-2 weeks away from work and normal activities in order to rest. It’s normal to experience swelling and discomfort during this time, which can be managed with prescribed medications. You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions to follow, including instructions on sleeping positions, incision care, and managing drains. You’ll be fitted with a specialized compression garment and should wear it as much as possible for the first several weeks. You’ll begin to see your results emerge within 3-6 months. With the right lifestyle, you can enjoy your tummy tuck results for years to come.
Schedule a Consultation
What is the best tummy tuck near me? At Trupiano Plastic Surgery, in Troy, MI we look forward to providing top-quality care and results that you will love. The tummy tuck is the most effective way to achieve a flatter, more toned stomach. To learn more, schedule your consultation with Dr. Trupiano at our Troy, MI office. Contact us by calling or filling out our online contact form to get started.
